Therapy can be the first big step toward better mental health. If you’re interested in working with a therapist in Illinois, consider online treatment. Barriers to care, like transportation challenges or a lack of available providers, can make finding in-person therapy difficult. An online platform like BetterHelp can make getting treatment more convenient and flexible.
With BetterHelp, you can work with a psychologist, licensed professional counselor, or other mental health provider from your home at a time that suits your busy schedule. BetterHelp therapists can guide you through the therapeutic process and help you overcome a range of challenges, including working through questions about gender identity, managing the symptoms of C-PTSD, overcoming job stress, and learning to heal from the psychological effects of marriage issues, divorce, and raising children.
Therapy can be beneficial for those having trouble coping with the bigger problems in the world at large or trying to find happiness in their own lives. If you’re looking for an online therapist, IL has practitioners licensed to provide mental health care state-wide. Connect with one of the providers below to learn how online therapy can help you live a more meaningful life.
Gabriel "Gabe" Seldess
My goal is to help people better understand and accept themselves. I strive to identify barriers to happiness and develop a road map toward greater health. I like to begin with getting an understanding of presenting issues and current life circumstances and working toward an individual’s vision for the future. I use a blend of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Family Counseling Theory to explore experiences that shape our beliefs, expectations, and preferences. I help a client examine these thoughts and ideals and to challenge those concepts that may be detrimental, limiting, or no longer functional. I use Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness and Motivational Interviewing to assist with mood management, decision making, and problem solving. I also assist with developing communication skills to help with self-advocacy. I am a Marriage and Family Therapist currently living and working in Chicago. I graduated from the Family Institute at Northwestern., and throughout my 17 years as a counselor I have worked with many difficulties individuals, families, and couples can face. I have specific experience helping people navigate relationships, anxiety and mental illness, and general stress management.
Marie-Pierre Sernatinger
Hello! my name is Marie-Pierre. I’m a native of France. I am bilingual but I have lived my entire adult life in the US. I have also raised a family here and have adult children. I have a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, with a Minor in Women’s Studies, and a Master’s in Clinical Psychology. I have been a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in the state of Illinois since 2003. Before starting Private Practice, I worked for many years in programs for Chronically Mentally Ill, Chemically Dependent or Dually Diagnosed individuals. These were adults and young adults, men and women both, who, typically, struggled with many other issues as well: chaotic lifestyle or upbringing, traumatic experiences, and often significant health and/or legal problems. No one needs to reach such extremes before seeking help. Pain and suffering come in different forms and degrees, but all are worthy of attention. In my private practice I have been seeing clients for issues such as relationships, family, parenting, work, and stages of life (from the newly graduated to the soon to retire...) Anxiety and depression are often present, as may be AOD use. Whether you feel overburdened, isolated, face difficult decisions, or lack support — There is no need to go it alone. I am Client-Centered in orientation: Establishing a climate in which you feel comfortable and safe, and where trust can develop, is essential to me. But depending on the issues we’re dealing with, I am likely to use a variety of approaches, whether cognitive-behavioral, solution-focused, or perhaps insight-oriented, to help you some resolution. You are in charge: At a concert, if you were the conductor, holding the baton, and I the instrument, I would follow your lead attentively to help express the music — as many variations are possible. Likewise, in therapy, it is crucial that I attend to you with care and mindfulness. I may be mirror, validator, support, resource... But the course is yours to mark. Would you tell me no what's going on in your life? Should we get started? Let me accompany you a bit... I would be honored to work with you!
Adriana Franco
Hi, my name is Adriana. I am a Bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Addictions Counselor with over 16 years of experience. I studied Clinical Social Work at UIC Jane Adams School of Social Work. I also practice yoga, mindfulness, and meditation. This is my second career and my passion. I have the honor, and privilege, of providing mental health services to young adults, adults, families, and couples, as well as working with children from 4-12 years of age. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including, anxiety, depression, substance use disorders, anger, domestic violence, career challenges, and parenting. My counseling style focuses primarily on empowering clients to lead better lives, and in so doing, treat them with respect and dignity in a safe, supportive, encouraging, and warm space. My role as a therapist is to understand you as an individual, listen, provide a non-judgmental safe space, guide, advocate, advice, and educate those in need as they find their voices and healthier lifestyles, meeting them where they are at – believing that clients are the experts of their lives. I strive to establish rapport through understanding, honesty, and positive regard towards the individual while applying person-centered, person-in-environment theoretical orientations, and motivational interviewing. I use an integrated approach, based on the client’s needs through the course of therapy, established on client-therapist collaborative treatment plan development. This plan might integrate a combination of cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness, meditation skills, dialectical behavioral therapy, and acceptance commitment therapy, grounded on the client’s preferences and needs. You are here, you have taken the first courageous step on the path to building a healthier, responsible, joyful life. I believe I could help you to succeed in this journey. I would love to get started working with you and am happy to answer any questions you may have for me. I look forward to working with you.
Jessica McDaniel
I believe we are all capable of more than we think we are, and my job is to help you do those hard things! We will work together to identify what areas you would like to improve, and continually check in with each other on your progress. Every day you make the decision to improve how you feel. The fact that you’re here, reading this, is a win for you! I have been practicing psychotherapy for 13 years in various clinical settings. I have experience helping adults cope with depression, anxiety, interpersonal relationships, life transitions, parenting issues, vocational issues, anger management, trauma, abuse, and grief. I practice cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), which examines the relationship between your thoughts and the feelings that those thoughts cause. I also teach stress relief, which frankly we all need, in the form of relaxation techniques and mindfulness. I can help you reduce your worries and stress, adjust to change, reach your personal goals, and find short and long-term solutions to the problems you’re struggling with. I'm glad you're here with me on this journey!
Dr. Ted Cravens
I am a licensed clinical psychologist, former teacher, veteran, and published researcher. I have over 25 years of experience working in inpatient and outpatient settings. I have worked in community mental health centers, private and not-for-profit hospitals, training institutions, staff model HMOs, and in private practice. I believe that asking for help is a true sign of maturity. My approach to therapy is to meet the client where they are in life. I take into consideration all aspects of a client’s life to create a unique treatment plan in order to help make changes toward a more fulfilling, connected, and healthier life. I used a variety of therapeutic approaches, including cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness techniques, client-centered therapy, insight-oriented therapy, psychodynamic approaches, hypnotherapy, and solution-focused therapy. I work with clients collaboratively to foster healing and to eliminate barriers in order to find meaning and to live life more fully.
Dr. Joyce A. Griffin
My approach to counseling is often didactic and is solution oriented. It is my opinion that clients come to counseling because they can not figure out what to do. So “teaching counseling” offers them new skills to use in their situation, as well as ideas to assist in coping in their world. I am somewhat eclectic in my approaches, realizing that everyone is unique, and one size does NOT fit all. I find a Cognitive Behavioral approach often encourages clients to set their own solution-focused path. I give feedback and assign homework tasks. I ask clients to join me in making a sort of treatment plan, and we work together on problem-solving. I periodically consult with trusted professional colleagues on a confidential bases, who practice outside of our local area. It is not my style to see what others have reported about their own work. I march to my own drummer and do what I believe is right in each situation. It’s fine with me if I am the only one doing it the way I do it.
Carolyn Cole
Do you notice yourself feeling as though something is just missing in your life? Maybe work feels unsatisfying or relationships feel unfulfilling. Your inner critic may be constantly yapping away, where you start to question if you even like yourself anymore, and you may find yourself trying to constantly distract yourself to escape the voice of the inner critic. You may feel more stressed, anxious, depressed, or even angry. Maybe you also notice patterns that keep - on - repeating, and you just don't know how to get out of this cycle. You may find yourself getting stuck in cycles of shame, guilt, anxiety, depression, or frustration or anger. Everything you've been trying to get ahead just simply isn't working. You may wonder "when will things ever change?" You may even feel a bit stuck or lost, or perhaps as though you feel an urge to "find yourself" again. If this resonates for you, this means you are my ideal client and I am here to help you! I love working with clients on the process of self discovery, self love, and uncovering a way to live a life that feels authentic to you! Let's work together to get you back on track to living a life that feels happier and more fulfilling. I have been working as a therapist since 2011, though my career in the mental health field began in 2000 when I worked as a case manager at a day program helping those diagnosed with persistent mental illness. I loved this experience so much, which is what inspired me to return to school so I could practice as a psychotherapist! My favorite areas to help my clients with are managing depression and anxiety, navigating relationship issues, healing from break-ups, coping with career challenges. exploring life purpose, enhancing self love, improving self esteem and self compassion, self discovery, and finding more meaning in life. My therapy style is warm, conversational, and collaborative, and I would be honored to help you on your journey. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you. I'm a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, and National Certified Counselor. I am licensed to provide clinical services to those residing in Illinois. I look forward to working with you!
Karyn Lockerman-Elliott
It takes a great deal of courage to admit that you feel different, that you are experiencing feelings of depression or anxiety, or you just feel off and would like to talk to someone who is trained and licensed to help you. College, family, relationships, and life and career goals are difficult no matter what stage of life you are in and sometimes it helps to talk to a professional who can teach you skills to manage your emotions or can listen to you without judgment. I am a licensed therapist who has been practicing for more than 15 years. I work with individuals, families, and couples. I have 57 hours post masters in gender studies and think that everyone has the right to live a life that they love and to be successful in their goals while navigating life in this chaotic world we live in. I am licensed to practice in Florida, Illinois, and Iowa. I have 15 + years of experience in issues from depression, anxiety, gender identity, same-sex relationships, alternative relationships, trauma and abuse, and family issues. I have 57+ hours post-masters in Gender Studies and believe all peoples should live their lives fully and understand how to make their unique style and relationships work for them.
Darwin Allen
I am licensed in Illinois with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, trauma, and abuse, & as motivation, self-esteem, and confidence. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I believe in finding the root issues behind the problems and resolving them. The first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life is courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Sheryl Palinski
I am licensed in Illinois with 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, parenting issues, & depression. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Jessica Kuilan
I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years of experience in working with a diverse group of individuals, crisis settings, mandatory programs, healthcare, etc. My primary goal is to use my expertise to improve the optimum functioning and self-management potential of the individuals I work with. I offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each of my client’s individual needs to help attain the personal growth they are striving for. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Exposure Therapy, Problem Solving Therapy, etc. to assist clients with anger management, depression, anxiety, substance abuse, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, and chronic illness, etc. Everyone - no matter what age, class, gender, race, religion, sexual orientation, etc. will come across certain barriers in life that need re-evaluation. You have already taken the first step toward taking care of your well-being and now is a great time to start!
Maria Camila Camacho
I am a bilingual licensed clinician in Illinois with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I work with my clients as a team to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Kenyotta Eugene Cross
I am licensed in Illinois with more than 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, career difficulties, & depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.
Marilyn Medow
I have 35 years of professional experience and am licensed in Illinois. My expertise includes helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, and parenting challenges to name a few. I work with clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings are shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy is courageous. I am proud of you for getting started! I began by specializing in domestic violence, child welfare and crisis intervention . I have extensive experience with trauma. During my career, my skills have expanded to include many varied modalities and specialties. As a psychotherapist , I have acquired a body of knowledge that I daily integrate into my professional practice. My approach is distinct with each client depending on their individual issues and circumstances. I provide a fresh approach on life’s challenges. A new perspective often brings relief to clients and allows them to be open to a new direction with new behaviors. I have overcome various experiences in life with the help of psychotherapy. This led me into the profession; helping people to heal. I received my undergraduate degree from the University of Wisconsin, Stevens Point and earned my master's degree from Smith College. I welcome new clients with open arms. I am with them throughout each phase of their journey of healing and self-discovery.
Rachael Cutts
I am licensed in Illinois with 18 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with addictions, stress, anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, confidence, & depression. I also have experience working with clients who are coping with life changes. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
How can therapists in Illinois support you?
Therapists in Illinois can practice many types of counseling, from marriage and family therapy to cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT). They may also assist you with symptoms of depression, stress, or anxiety.
Therapists may help you set and achieve career goals, work on current issues you may be facing, or address your past. Over 11,181,370 people live in Illinois, and one out of five Americans has a mental health condition. Searching for licensed professionals in Illinois may help you find mental health support for personal growth, anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and other mental health concerns. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to seek support from one of BetterHelp's licensed providers above.
The mental health field can include psychiatric medication management, online therapy, marriage counseling, couples therapy, clinical social work, licensed counseling, and other mental health services in person and online. Seeing a licensed provider can help you navigate mental health conditions and life circumstances through mindfulness and other specialized techniques.
Please note that BetterHelp does not offer diagnostic or medication management services.
Why are many residents in the state of Illinois working with a licensed counselor?
People reach out for mental health support for a variety of reasons. Many individuals work with a counselor for general life advice, while others may attend therapy for a specific concern. Whether you live in a large city or a smaller county in Illinois, BetterHelp can match you with a licensed professional tailored to your preferences noted when you sign up.
Mental health counselors in Illinois support clients with varying issues, which can include:
- Challenging situations or life stressors
- Eating disorders
- Anxiety disorders
- Depression or depressive conditions
- Adjustment issues
- Emotional support for a terminal illness
- Chronic pain emotional support
- Grief
- Personality disorders
- Trauma
- Relationship conflicts and concerns
Finding a therapist that takes new clients in online therapy can be the first step in finding a treatment plan that works for you. Your therapist can provide a safe space for you to focus on self-care and well-being.
If you're interested in speaking to one of the therapists above or being matched with a counselor in 24 to 48 hours, consider signing up for BetterHelp. BetterHelp has over 35,000 providers, including those listed above.
Emergency services
If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use this site's online services. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the hotlines below:
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline:1-800-273-TALK (8255)
- Crisis Text Line:Text HOME to 741741
- Veterans Crisis Line<:Call 1-800-273-8255 (and press 1) or text 838255. For support for the deaf and hard of hearing community, please use your preferred relay service or dial 711 then 1-800-273-8255.
- Trevor Lifeline(LGBTQ Lifeline): (866)488-7386
- SAMHSA National Helpline: (Substance Use): (800)662-4357
- National Eating Disorder Association Helpline:1-800-931-2237 (M-Th: 9 AM-9 PM EST, Fri 9 AM - 5 PM EST
- Child Help Hotline Call 1-800-422-4453 or use the online chat featur
- National Anti-Hazing Hotline: 1-888-NOT-HAZE (1-888-668-4293)
- Physician Crisis Support Line: Call 1-888-409-0141 if you are a first responder or medical provider experiencing crises related to Covid-1
- Sexual Assault Hotline: Call RAINN at 1-800-656-4673
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Some commonly asked questions can be found below.
How much does a therapist cost?
Mental health professionals can differ in price. Forbes found that the average cost of in-person therapy in the US is around $100 to $200 per hour. Pricing can also vary based on your location.
BetterHelp offers payment plans of $60 to $90 per session, charged monthly in a lump sum. You can also take advantage of this pricing on one of BetterHelp's sister platforms, like ReGain for couples or TeenCounseling for teens aged 13 to 19.
Many therapists may be upfront about their pricing and whether or not they take health insurance from the beginning. Additionally, some in your area may offer a sliding scale plan to allow those with lower incomes to pay less for therapy. However, services online can often save individuals a few hundred dollars per month.
How do I know if I should get a therapist?
Mental health services and mental health providers may help you navigate various concerns. You do not need a diagnosis or condition to attend therapy; You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general advice. A counselor may help you gain power over your life and emotions while you navigate day-to-day experiences.
Mental health issues don't always present as a crisis. Many professionals provide talk therapy and support for life transitions, skills learning, relationship problems, or life coaching. Online therapy sessions in Illinois can allow clients seeking therapy to experience professional help through video, phone, or live chat sessions without commuting to an office.
Does insurance cover therapy?
Different counseling services can vary in cost. Therapists must apply to accept insurance through insurance companies, which may take time and money, so not every therapist offers services through insurance. If you cannot find a therapist that accepts your plan, BetterHelp may be cheaper than visiting an in-person therapist.
Is online therapy safe?
Online therapy through BetterHelp and its sister platforms is safe. Therapists are licensed, experienced, and vetted before being contracted with the platform. If you experience any concerns with your therapist, you change your counselor through the platform or app at any time.
Popular cities in Illinois
- Chicago, IL
- Aurora, IL
- Joliet, IL
- Rockford, IL
- Naperville, IL
- Springfield, IL
- Peoria, IL
- Elgin, IL
- Waukegan, IL
- Champaign, IL
- Cicero, IL
- Bloomington, IL
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